Finance Job Opportunities: April 2013

April 2013 saw a moderate level of activity in the finance job market. While not experiencing explosive growth, several sectors demonstrated consistent hiring needs, offering opportunities for finance professionals across various experience levels.

Key Areas of Demand

• Accounting: The demand for accountants remained steady, particularly for roles in corporate accounting, auditing (both internal and external), and tax compliance. Companies were seeking professionals with experience in GAAP, IFRS (though less prevalent in the US), and specific industry regulations. Junior accountants, senior accountants, and accounting managers were all in demand.
• Financial Analysis: Financial analysts were highly sought after, especially those with strong modeling skills (Excel, VBA) and experience in budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Businesses across various industries needed analysts to help them understand their financial performance and make informed decisions. Roles like financial analyst, senior financial analyst, and financial planning & analysis (FP&A) managers were common.
• Banking: While still recovering from the 2008 financial crisis, the banking sector showed some activity. Opportunities existed in areas like retail banking (branch management, loan officers), commercial banking (relationship managers), and investment banking (analysts, associates, but more competitive). Regulations surrounding the Dodd-Frank Act continued to shape hiring practices.
• Investment Management: Opportunities in investment management were competitive. Roles included portfolio managers (requiring strong track records and certifications like CFA), research analysts (equity research, fixed income research), and client relationship managers. Boutique firms and larger asset management companies both had openings.
• Insurance: The insurance industry had a consistent need for actuaries (requiring actuarial exams), underwriters, and financial analysts specializing in insurance-related products and risk management.

Skills and Qualifications

Beyond specific technical skills, employers in April 2013 emphasized the following:

• Strong Analytical Skills: The ability to analyze complex financial data and draw meaningful conclusions was crucial.
• Communication Skills: Effectively communicating financial information to both financial and non-financial stakeholders was essential.
• Technical Proficiency: Advanced Excel skills were expected, and knowledge of specific accounting software (e.g., SAP, Oracle Financials, QuickBooks) was often required.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Finance professionals needed to be able to identify and solve financial problems effectively.
• Certifications: Certifications like CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), and CMA (Certified Management Accountant) were highly valued.

Job Search Strategies

In April 2013, job seekers typically utilized online job boards (LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster), company websites, and recruitment agencies to find finance positions. Networking was also an important aspect of the job search, with professional organizations (e.g., IMA, AICPA) providing opportunities to connect with potential employers.

Note: This information reflects the general job market in April 2013 and may not be exhaustive. Actual job availability and requirements varied based on location, industry, and company.